Some automakers have been experimenting with hydrogen (H2) engines, but should power plants follow suit?
Automakers and various industries aren’t the only ones aiming to decarbonize while exploring hydrogen combustion. Utility companies have also been investigating its potential for their operations.
What have their findings revealed?
The allure of hydrogen combustion for utilities lies in its potential to generate electricity with low or even zero carbon emissions.
However, it remains unclear whether H2 is the ideal fuel source for them, or if it’s better suited for other industries utilizing fuel cells or internal combustion engines (ICEs) differently.
Scaling Up Hydrogen Combustion
While the concept of hydrogen combustion may seem simple, its application for reliable power generation on a scale necessary to support an electrical grid presents unique challenges.
Hydrogen continues to hold promise as a viable option, especially as the long-anticipated next generation of nuclear technology hasn’t materialized, and most renewable energy sources remain intermittent.
Can hydrogen combustion outcompete existing and emerging technologies?
There’s optimism that utilities will eventually harness advanced geothermal energy, small modular nuclear reactors, carbon capture and storage in natural gas plants, or even long-duration batteries (yet to be developed).
However, none of these strategies, including hydrogen, have emerged as a clear winner in addressing decarbonization while meeting energy demands.
Hydrogen Combustion: A Potential Solution for Grid Decarbonization
Emily Kent, director for zero-carbon fuels at the Clean Air Task Force, emphasizes the importance for utilities to strategize for a future with more intermittent energy sources. She sees hydrogen as potentially filling the gap in the short term, providing a clean, firm power source.
Choosing the Optimal Hydrogen Combustion Method
While conceptually simple, hydrogen combustion can be implemented in various ways, not all equally desirable. The production of H2 itself can be clean, but it often involves the use of natural gas and other fossil fuels, raising environmental concerns.
For now, utilities are focusing on refining their options, possibly combining different approaches to achieve their climate goals and ensure reliable power supply.